Several wretched, unbearable days passed. Livorno really rose, and began to threaten us with an open attack. The indignant populace by night and by day surrounded the palace of the count, and from time to time threw stones at the building. The count was protected by a bodyguard of sailors. Boats filled with ladies and gentlemen were constantly sailing between the ships to try and catch a glimpse of the unfortunate prisoner. I was sent on board the _Three Hierarchs_ with a letter and parcel of books which had been confided to me by the count, as I learnt afterwards, for the Princess. As I was returning to the shore I heard a cry, and turning round, was petrified. At the open window of the _Three Hierarchs_ I could see, pressed to the iron grating, a pale countenance and a hand waving a handkerchief. I also answered by waving my hand. Was it noticed or not from the ship, behind the high waves? I never knew. The sailors plied their oars sturdily; there was a strong breeze, and the boat flew on the dancing waves. * * * * * Rumours began to circulate that the fleet would soon set sail. Where for was not yet known. I got ready to go out and learn, if possible, if I was to remain on the Count’s staff. I was just taking up my hat, when some one entered the room. I turned round. At the door stood a dark figure. On looking at her, I recognised the Russian stranger of the Church Santa Maria. Her travel-stained dress showed she had just come a long journey. “You recognise me,” said she, throwing back her veil, and I could see that her golden, wavy hair had become grey. “What do you want?” I asked her. “That’s how you answered for her. Those are your promises,” said she, advancing a step towards me. “Where are your assurances, your word of honour as a true man?” “Listen to me.… I am innocent,” I began. “Dastards! ruffians!” she screamed. “They’ve laid a trap, they’ve enticed her, they’ve ruined the poor unfortunate, and then, think _you_, they will all go scot free? You are easy now, you think. You mistake. The hour of retribution is near; it will come--it will come--” She advanced on me so menacingly, that I retreated to the open window. We were on the second storey, and the window looked out on the garden. I was very glad that at this minute the garden was quite deserted. The noise could have attracted eaves-droppers, who might have insulted the stranger, whose visit I could in no way understand, and who, as it seemed to me, was quite incapable of being convinced. “_You’re_ innocent?” she asked. “_Innocent?_” “Yes. I acted honestly. You will see. I’ll show you; I’ll prove it to you.…” “Answer me.--You advised the Princess to come here.--You persuaded her!” “I persuaded her.” “You convinced her of the possibility of a marriage with Orloff. No prevarication. You hear; give me a straight answer,” repeated this woman, trembling with emotion.